Hotels in Borders among winners at virtual Scottish Hotel Awards

The annual awards ceremony, now in its 17th year, was held in an online format last week to celebrate inns and hotels across the country.

Among the winners of national prizes were the Buccleuch Arms in St Boswells, named as community hotel of the year, and nearby Dryburgh Abbey Hotel, named as country sports hotel of the year.

The former was also judged to be the region’s best casual dining venue and breakfast provider, as well as the Borders’ best inn.

“We are delighted to receive such an amazing commendation, especially during coronavirus lockdown,” said Buccleuch Arms owner Billy Hamilton, adding that the venue prides itself on using local suppliers.

“Scotland has a fantastic hospitality sector, and I’m proud to run a business at the heart of the Borders.

“Working alongside the community is all part of the service we strive to offer.

“Our customers near and far have cherished memories they can share about the Buccleuch.”

The hotel employs 25 full-time staff and 15 part-timers.

“The Buccleuch Arms depends on the commitment and excellence of our fantastic team, but right now it is hard because we’re shut and our staff have been furloughed, so more than anything we look forward to opening the doors, getting back to work and welcoming customers again,” Billy added.

Besides its national success, the Dryburgh Abbey Hotel won regional recognition as the most pet-friendly hotel and best wedding venue and romantic hotel in the Borders.

Also closed for the foreseeable future, the Dryburgh’s staff have been furloughed for now too.

Mark Wallace, its managing director, said: “We are so very proud to have won four accolades at the virtual 2020 Scottish Hotel Awards.

“Thank you so much to all of our staff, guests and supporters. It means a lot.”

It was a successful evening too for the Border Hotel at Kirk Yetholm, named the country’s best small event hotel and best for lunches regionally too.

Owners Helen and Douglas Scott-Watson added: “We would like to say a massive thanks to all our staff who have worked alongside us and helped us achieve great results with this historic old pub.”

Further regional awards were claimed by the Tontine Hotel in Peebles, named best town hotel; nearby Cringletie House, given a prize for its lunches; and the Cross Keys Hotel in Kelso, named as best business and meeting hotel and bar food provider.

All winners were nominated by customers and decided by judges following anonymous visits and inspections.

The overall winner was the Machrie Hotel on Islay.